§ 25.505. Functions of respiratory care practitioners.

 (a)  Under section 10.1(d) of the act (63 P. S. §  271.10a(d)), a respiratory care practitioner may implement direct respiratory care to an individual being treated by either a licensed medical doctor or a licensed doctor of osteopathic medicine, upon physician prescription or referral, or under medical direction and approval consistent with standing orders or protocols of an institution or health care facility. This care may constitute indirect services such as consultation or evaluation of an individual and also includes, but is not limited to, the following services:

   (1)  Administration of medical gases.

   (2)  Humidity and aerosol therapy.

   (3)  Administration of aerosolized medications.

   (4)  Intermittent positive pressure breathing.

   (5)  Incentive spirometry.

   (6)  Bronchopulmonary hygiene.

   (7)  Management and maintenance of natural airways.

   (8)  Maintenance and insertion of artificial airways.

   (9)  Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.

   (10)  Management and maintenance of mechanical ventilation.

   (11)  Measurement of ventilatory flows, volumes and pressures.

   (12)  Analysis of ventilatory gases and blood gases.

 (b)  Under section 10.1(d) of the act, a respiratory care practitioner may perform the activities listed in subsection (a) only upon physician prescription or referral or while under medical direction consistent with standing orders or protocols in an institution or health care facility.